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Toward a “Smart-Green” Future in Cities: System Dynamics Study of Megacities in China

Author

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  • Rui Hu

    (School of Urban Economy and Public Administration, Capital University of Economics and Business, No. 21 Zhangjialukou, Fengtai District, Beijing 100070, China)

  • Xinliang Han

    (Asset Management Office, University of Science and Technology Beijing, No. 30, Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100083, China)

Abstract

This study investigates the development trend of smart-green cities, focusing on seven megacities in China. It addresses three issues that are common in urban green development, including the relationship between “smart” and “green”, the scenario analysis of green development, and the uniqueness of megacities in green development. System dynamics modeling is applied. The simulation results reveal an “S”-shaped development curve for both aspects, indicating a gradual and accelerating growth pattern. Notably, the curve representing energy consumption lags behind the curve for smart city development by approximately three years. After 2030, when the smart city construction is expected to be completed, the proportion of the tertiary industry and investment in science and technology will play a significant role in limiting energy consumption. This study concludes by providing policy suggestions, including the need for long-term plans with phased targets, considering the specificity of megacities, and addressing external influences.

Suggested Citation

  • Rui Hu & Xinliang Han, 2023. "Toward a “Smart-Green” Future in Cities: System Dynamics Study of Megacities in China," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(17), pages 1-18, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:17:p:6395-:d:1232354
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jenni Viitanen & Richard Kingston, 2014. "Smart Cities and Green Growth: Outsourcing Democratic and Environmental Resilience to the Global Technology Sector," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 46(4), pages 803-819, April.
    2. Filiou, Despoina & Kesidou, Effie & Wu, Lichao, 2023. "Are smart cities green? The role of environmental and digital policies for Eco-innovation in China," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 165(C).
    3. Yituan Liu & Qihang Li & Zheng Zhang, 2022. "Do Smart Cities Restrict the Carbon Emission Intensity of Enterprises? Evidence from a Quasi-Natural Experiment in China," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(15), pages 1-20, July.
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